Applications will be judged on their capacity to engage diverse audiences in one or more aspects of the STEM disciplines. In this context ‘STEM’ may include, but is not necessarily limited to, the life sciences, agricultural science, chemistry, engineering, maths, physics, marine science, ecology, geography, psychology, computing and technology. Examples of previously funded events include a wildlife photography exhibition, a permaculture workshop, science talks in public venues, an open day at the Mt Pleasant Radiotelescope Observatory, a science themed market stall and a documentary screening.

In this competitive grant round preference will be given to applications that demonstrate innovative and engaging methods of science communication, that demonstrate a willingness to effectively co-brand with Inspiring Australia, and that target Youth audiences (18 -35 yrs). These are priorities only and not eligibility criteria.

Applications that request financial support for large capital purchases will not be considered. Anticipated budget expenses would include things like venue hire, advertising and promotion, speaker or presenter fees, catering, incidentals (such as in the case of a workshop materials) etc.

Applications will be limited to the fields outlined in the online application form. No attachments, other than your budget, will be accepted.

Funding requests for events that take place in a school for a student audience will not be eligible.

These grants are intended to support public science engagement events that take place outside the month of August as there are additional grants available for activity associated with National Science Week.